School Closes as Long-Time Teacher Retires

Jackie Brandtner (seated) receives a scrapbook created by current and former students and teachers in honor of her retirement.

Deer Creek Christian Academy has been one of Cape Girardeau's unintentional secrets for more than a decade. What began in someone's home grew into a K-8 private, nonprofit school in its own welcoming blue building on Route W. This year turned out to be the beloved school's last, as its founder, Jackie Brandtner, finally begins her well deserved retirement.

Brandtner's teaching career began in earnest in 1982 with a class of 42 first-graders at Nell Holcomb School. She then moved to St. Vincent de Paul School where she taught kindergarten and first grade for 16 years before opening Deer Creek in 1997. Brandtner has been the school's director since she first was persuaded by several parents who offered encouragement and financial support to start her own school. They knew her love of children and unique approach to individualized learning would benefit their children and many others. It would seem the parents were correct, as Brandtner was recognized as one of Cape Girardeau's Educators of the Year in 2000.

Through the years Deer Creek has been a special place of learning to hundreds of students in pre-school through eighth grade. The students began each day together in the main room to say the Pledge of Allegiance and offer prayers and concerns before dividing into smaller classes grouped by age and ability. Students moved fluidly between classes and projects depending on their level of ability and style of learning. The school's small size encouraged creativity, original thought and numerous field trips.

Brandtner explains her decision to retire was extremely difficult, and the future of the school itself remains uncertain. "I love teaching, and I love this school and the children, so I had to think about this decision for several years before I finally was able to get to the point of retiring. It is such a special place. I would love for someone who embraces our ideals to purchase the school and take over the huge responsibility of managing it, but so far no one has stepped forward to do that. It breaks my heart to leave, but I know it is the right time. I am looking forward to finally being able to enjoy retirement with my husband and family."

The school is located in Cape on Route W/ 2039 Cape La Croix Road. A buyer has come forward to purchase the contents of the school, and anyone interested in purchasing the building and the property may contact Tom Meyer of Realty Executives.